Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Bharata Natyam And Its Cultural And Religious Importance

By Mattie Knight


If there are things that have survived the test of time, dancing is definitely among those on top of the list. Aside from its beauty, its also something that is practiced all over the world, with each nation having their own variation. Amidst all the changes and cultural differences, dance is something that managed to seep through the confines of different traditions.

There are a lot of different dances from many culture. Some of them have retained their original form while others have evolved to a higher form and have changed some of its moves. Bharata Natyam Los Angeles is one of those traditional dances that have retained its glamour and are continually practiced by many people.

It originated from India and is associated with its religious and cultural traditions. It is considered as a form of fire dancing and is a major elemental dance along side the other elements like Odissi for water. Its association with fire is one thing that is apparent by the movements that it has which resembles like a dancing fire.

Its a solo dance and is presented with the idea of portraying different personalities while on stage. This means that one person needs to show multiple personalities in one continuous dance. A narrative comes with it, so the viewers could identify whether or not the artist already changed personality.

Indians in the past are said to pay high reverence to the universe and the human body is said to be something eternal and should therefore be shown respect as well. Dancing this undeniably portrays a unique kind of beauty. Plus the fact that those who perform it are trained individuals as well who can do a very good job in flexing their bodies to achieve some form.

Performing it in front of the public will also require the person to wear something really elaborate that is seen as an art in itself. With the message of the dance centering on beauty and love, there is no wonder why females are majority of artists who do this. There are men of course, but they are only few.

Its true that its popularity has declined in the past. This could perhaps be attributed to the culture change and awakening that was experienced on the country. But just like any other practices, somehow, it has managed to return its beauty and is not becoming popular again even to modern men.

The interest on this craft is no longer just limited in India. Now, we are seeing schools and training centers from all over the United States and even in other continents that teach this. For those who are interested on learning this, then getting in touch with those institutions should not be much of an issue.

The world has now gone digital and you can already get a lot of information by simply going online and looking at different offers. Should you wish to enroll in a formal study, there are ample of options. If not, you can have idea on it by watching some videos of people and renowned artists performing it. Other than art, many have seen this is as an effective means of exercising and meditation as well. You might want to experience the same benefit that they did. Give it a try.




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